Songs of Iwate: The Heart of Our Hometown Passed Down in Song | A Collection of Classics to Enjoy While Thinking of Iwate
With melodies that resonate in the heart, Iwate’s beautiful scenery unfolds before your eyes…
The culture rooted in this land and the lives of its people have become countless beloved songs that are still sung today.
The timeless history of the World Heritage site Hiraizumi, the mystical folklore of Tono, and the warm feelings of the people who live in the region.
The stories woven into each song are like a single painting capturing Iwate’s landscapes through the changing seasons.
In this article, we introduce gems of classic songs brimming with love for Iwate.
Why not let these songs stir your thoughts toward Iwate?
- Folk songs, children's songs, and nursery rhymes of Iwate: the heart of the hometown passed down through song
- Songs of Iwate: The Heart of Our Hometown Passed Down in Song | A Collection of Classics to Enjoy While Thinking of Iwate
- Bands, artists, and singers from Iwate Prefecture
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[Songs of Iwate] The Heart of Our Hometown Passed Down in Song | A Collection of Masterpieces to Hear While Thinking of Iwate (11–20)
Rock and hand! Iwate! Geodude!Pokemon daisuki kurabu
The prefectural support song born from the collaboration between Iwate Prefecture and Pokémon is a popular track brimming with hometown pride and humor.
Its upbeat, rock-inspired melody is paired with memorable lyrics that blend Iwate’s appeal with the distinctive traits of Geodude.
With vocals by Kazuo Sato, a native of Ninohe City, the song powerfully conveys the spirit of Iwate.
Since its release in May 2019, it has been featured at events both within and outside the prefecture, playing a role in promoting tourism.
Centered around the song, tourism promotions—such as the Geodude-wrapped trains and the installation of Pokémon manhole covers known as Poké Lids—garnered a strong response.
It’s a track perfect for Iwate natives reminiscing about home from afar, as well as Pokémon fans planning a trip to Iwate.
Ihatov SymphonyTomita Isao
A symphonic work brimming with Isao Tomita’s love for Iwate, depicting the literary world of Kenji Miyazawa in grand sonic scale.
Released by Nippon Columbia in January 2013, this piece garnered attention for its groundbreaking use of the virtual singer Hatsune Miku as soloist.
Across nine tracks inspired by Miyazawa’s poems and fairy tales, the soundscape brilliantly evokes Iwate’s majestic nature and the mystique of its folklore.
Premiered at Tokyo Opera City in November 2012 to a sold-out audience on the first day, it was followed by a nationwide tour starting in Hanamaki, Iwate, the next year.
A gem of a masterpiece recommended not only for those from Iwate, but also for lovers of Kenji Miyazawa’s literature and anyone intrigued by new possibilities in music.
I think this is Iwate Prefecture.Go!Go! Setagaya Ōrusutāzu
This is a song that carries the spirit of Iwate on a gentle melody.
The playful spirit and affection in Tokoro George’s lyrics convey respect for Iwate’s cultural treasures, such as the Nanbu Cattle-Driving Song and World Heritage Hiraizumi.
Released as a single by Go! Go! Setagaya All Stars from YVS Records in March 2024, the piece was written and composed by Tokoro George himself.
Its humorous expressions and heartwarming message beautifully capture the everyday lives of local people and the region’s natural beauty.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to when you need a break from a busy routine and wish to reflect on Iwate’s majestic nature and warm-hearted hospitality.
Soul of Tohokugurūpu damashii
A rock song filled with love and laughter, infused with the spirit and soul of Tohoku, sets Iwate’s heart ablaze.
Blending Group Tamashii’s unique humor with deep affection for the Tohoku region, this work bursts with hometown pride.
Released as a single in June 2004, it was created by Tohoku-connected members: lyrics by Kankuro Kudo from Miyagi Prefecture and music by Taku Tomizawa.
In 2014, an alternative version incorporating Buddhist-chant elements was also released.
It’s a piece that warms the hearts of people from Iwate living away from home—one to listen to while picturing Tohoku’s beautiful landscapes and rich culture.
Nanbu Cattle Drover’s SongIwate ken min’yō
This is a folk song of Iwate Prefecture that, with its wistful melody and deep emotion, conveys the climate and history of the Nanbu region of Iwate to the present day.
Born as a work song for people driving cattle—indispensable for farming and transport—it has taken root in the community and been passed down across generations.
It was recorded in the early Showa period by Victor and Columbia, bringing it nationwide recognition.
Frequently featured in Iwate’s tourism promotions and educational programs, it is also an essential presence at local festivals and events.
Best enjoyed while envisioning Iwate’s majestic natural scenery, this piece is perfect for those who feel a longing for their hometown or who wish to experience traditional Japanese music.
Hometown WindShibata Yasutaka
A gem of a ballad woven from gratitude to one’s hometown and prayers for recovery.
Yasutaka Shibata’s powerful yet warm vocals seep deep into the heart in this masterpiece.
Both a majestic orchestral version and an inviting guitar version are included, each shining with its own charm.
Released in September 2016, the song was created as a support anthem for the recovery of Iwate Prefecture.
That same year, it was performed at the opening ceremony of the “Kibōkyō Iwate National Sports Festival” before Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress at the time.
It’s a piece you’ll want to listen to while envisioning Iwate’s beautiful landscapes.
Whether you live away from your hometown or wish for the recovery of disaster-affected areas, the “hometown breeze” carried by this song is sure to bring comfort to your heart.
[Songs of Iwate] The Heart of Our Hometown Passed Down in Song | A Collection of Classics to Listen to While Thinking of Iwate (21–30)
Sanriku CoastKanazawa Misaki
The original song is by Kaori Mizumori, who is famous as a local song singer, but Misaki Kanazawa is also a professional singer from Miyako City in Iwate Prefecture who sings about Iwate’s landmarks.
In “Sanriku Coast,” places like Jodogahama in Iwate Prefecture and the Port of Kuji appear, and the ferry’s whistle conveys a sense of sorrow.